DixieCast: Sound of the South

The Ranalli family have done quite a lot to put Tontitown on the map. Between their multi-generation Ranalli family farm, local farm supply, and seasonal grocery store, in many ways they’ve contributed to the city’s growth and success. The Tontitown Winery, in turn, has thrived along with the rest of the family’s ventures. Yet like their other businesses, the Tontitown winery remains personable and accessible, with the family staffing the floor and interacting with their customers. Please join the Dixiecast as we interview the winery's owner, Heather Ranalli Peachee and come back for some local entertainment under the stars. #tontitown #arkansas #ozarks #winery #localbusiness

tontitownwinery.com

Located at 335 N. Barrington Road Tontitown, AR 72762

Arkansas Extension Homemakers Council (EHC) is one of the largest nonprofit volunteer groups in the state. With a membership of over 3,700 and over 350 clubs, this organization plays a meaningful role in the communities it serves. In this episode we speak with Washington County EHC Officers: Mary King, Incoming President; Amie Birdsong, Incoming Secretary, and Anna Goff, Family and Consumer Sciences - County Extension Agent and EHC Advisor at the Washington County Extension Office.

Learn how this organization improves the lives of Arkansans through research-based information, through non-formal education to help all Arkansans improve their economic well-being and the quality of life. There is likely an EHC club that will interest you in Washington County. Through the Cooperative Extension Service, you can learn more about agriculture, 4-H youth development, family and consumer sciences, or community development.

The University of Arkansas System Division of Agriculture’s mission is to strengthen agriculture, communities, and families by connecting trusted research to the adoption of best practices. Through the Agricultural Experiment Station and the Cooperative Extension Service, the Division of Agriculture conducts research and extension work within the nation’s historic land grant education system.

The Division of Agriculture is one of 20 entities within the University of Arkansas System. It has offices in all 75 counties in Arkansas and faculty on five system campuses. The University of Arkansas System Division of Agriculture is an equal opportunity/affirmative action institution. #ehc #arkansas #nonprofit #volunteer #agriculture #countyfair #communitydevelopment

https://www.uaex.uada.edu/life-skills-wellness/extension-homemakers/

mywashcofair.com

For more information email washington-fayetteville@uada.edu or call the Washington County Extension Office: 479-444-1755.

A couple months ago the Butler Creek Boys perfomed at my church’s evening service. I immediately purchased their CD and when it wasn’t playing in my car, it was stuck in my head. As I listened to their toe-tapping album and watched their Youtube clips, I became curious about their history and backgrounds. Since I host a podcast that covers the sights and sounds of Northwest Arkansas, I thought they would be a perfect interview for the Dixiecast. The entire concert video can be found on my YouTube Channel: https://youtu.be/EaOa_0ONdV4

For more information visit: thebutlercreekboys.com

Nestled in the heart of Northwest Arkansas, Springdale radiates a youthful and modern vibe with a culturally diverse population. This historic city is currently undergoing Downtown improvements which is significantly enhancing its desirability. Join me today as we take in the Razorback Greenway which snakes through much of Washington and Benton Counties; explore the grounds of the Shiloh Museum of the Ozarks; and conclude with a stroll down the parts of Emma Street not affected by the construction.

It's not every day you come across a market like Richard's Country Meat Market. Not only does it offer a wide variety of meats, seafood and cheeses; but it also offers fresh produce, homeade take-n-bake pizza, homemade bread, ready-made meals and homeade desserts. What is most remarkable about this family owned market is its longevity: 30 years!

Did you know that recently over 500 airports across the United States submitted applications to receive federal money from the US Dept of Transportation Small Community Development program. The Transportation department was looking to support airports that among other things, had aging infrastructure and ADA compliance issues. XNA was one of 85 airports to receive money and it ended up receiving 13 million dollars which will help with some pretty special projects expected to be completed by the Spring of 2025. Tune in this week's episode in the link below to learn what's ahead for XNA!

I talk to a lot of people considering a move to Arkansas from other states. As one who came from another state myself (both CA and WA State,) I thought to record an episode about my own observations after just over a year here may provide some fresh perspective. I tried to avoid the obvious observations like humidity, bugs and wide open spaces; and instead focus on more nuanced things that for me, have made living in Arkansas more meaningful and enjoyable.

Disclaimer: My description of "green trees" was inadvertant. I should have edited that out because I'm pretty sure most of the trees of the Ozarks are green! :)

The Botanical Garden of the Ozarks is a not for profit 5013 organization located on the east side of Lake Fayetteville in Fayetteville, Arkansas, United States. The 44-acre site is located at the border between Fayetteville and Springdale on N. Crossover Road (Hwy 265).

Botanical Garden of the Ozarks: bgozarks.org

Some audio verbiage is from bgozarks.org as well as posted signage at the park.

Special thanks to John Berry, Director of Special Events for allowing me to record some of the audio.

Thanks as always to Bread and Gravy music for the use of your music. https://www.youtube.com/@stephanieleebee

Lake Fayetteville is the perfect in-town recreational destination without having to travel long windy roads to get there. In fact you could go from the Fayetteville Mall across the highway and be at Lake Fayetteville. Didn't bring a bike? Rent one! In fact there's all kinds of water toys you can rent. Or take a stroll around the beautiful lake on safe open trails. There's even a well maintained disc-golf course for a pick up game. Lake Fayetteville offers fun for the whole family.

Have a smashing good time in Fayetteville, AR at NWA Smashlab. Meet co-owners Jeff and Cody as they show off their new business, a place where you can safely smash anything you can imagine. Join Jill as she tours their facility and destroys some office equipment with a mace.

https://nwasmashlab.com/

It's never too late to be prepared and to consider what everyday efforts we can take in the event of a natural disaster.

Today I speak with Kyle Curry, Deputy Director Field Operations with the Washington County (Arkansas) Dept. of Emergency Management. As a long-time resident and former firefighter, Curry shares practical advice residents can empower theselves with.

Below are some links to helpful local resources:

https://www.washingtoncountyar.gov/go...

https://www.washingtoncountyar.gov/go...

https://www.fema.gov/pdf/areyouready/...

Thank you Kyle Curry for your time and valuable input!

Experience a brief tour through Van Buren, Arkansas with us. We will start at the oldest county courthouse west of the Mississippi and head down Main Street stopping at the Visitors Center; hop on an old fashioned refurbished trolley and hear from its driver, Lance, a history guide and longtime resident of Van Buren. We'll then then conclude with a tour with Coralee Young, Community Relations Manager from Arts on Main, the most forward thinking art experience I've witnessed yet. There is something for everyone here in Historic Van Buren, young and old! At the end of this tour I promise you'll want to make a beeline to Van Buren, Arkansas and experience it for yourself. It's clean, accessible, walkable and as friendly as a small town in Northwest Arkansas could be.

Special thanks to Lance at Van Buren Historic Main Street Trolley History Guide. Lance told me about Arts on Main and I'm so glad he did. Find them on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/VanBurenArkansas

Sincere thanks to Coralee Young, Community Relations Manager from Arts on Main for the spectactular tour: https://artsonmainvb.com/

I'm grateful to the ladies at the Van Buren Chamber of Commerce for directing me to the Visitors Center:

https://www.vanburenchamber.org/

King Opera House: www.kingoperahouse.com

Special thanks as always to Bread & Gravy Music from Sequim, WA for the use of their music.

Axe throwing is a fun, safe, and surprisingly not difficult, though I make it look that way. I've observed several axe throwing opportunities here in Northwest Arkansas and thought to see what it's all about. Little did I realize that it's also an Olympic sport. Join me at Ozarks Sportsman located in Tontitown, Arkansas which is just outside of Springdale. James at Ozarks Sportsman provides me with some great instruction before I try my hand at axe throwing. What a unique sport not to mention, a fun way to sharpen your skills. This activity is also perfect for a group outing with friends or the family.

My 0 percent comment pertains to their not offering an initiation fee for Jan 2023. Apologies for any confusion.

Special thanks to James and Krista at https://ozarksportsman.com/ for the information and instruction

and to Bread and Gravy Music for the use of your music!

Every now and then I come across a business that deserves attention because of its direct effect on both its customers and the community. Beautiful Lives directly serves women who've experienced setbacks, trauma and abuse. By extension, Beautiful Lives serves the local and global community by providing a superior service with quality merchandise sold at affordable prices. What started out as a humble desire to provide assistance in the spirit of servanthood, has blossomed into a bright shining place of hope and dignity. In this episode we tour 3 of the Beautiful Lives locations here in Northwest Arkansas and conclude with an interview of Beautiful Lives Board Member, Diane Higgins.

www.beautifulivesboutique.com

https://faypublic.tv

If you're in Fayetteville, Arkansas and are looking for fun local places to visit, make a point of stopping at Experience Fayetteville Visitors Center located at 21 S. Block Ave. Not only is the staff very informed and helpful but there's an abundance of information available arranged in a neat and organzied manner. They offer maps and magazines, all free, for you to take and peruse. The literature isn't only relegated to Fayetteville either, there's information about other nearby areas like Bentonville, Eureka Springs and ore. This is a thoughtfully arranged place to stop in and have a conversation with a welcoming staff who knows the area. There's a nice selection of gifting items for sale from local artists. This is a wonderful and easily accessible visitors center, right in the heart of Downtown Square. Parking is right in front and along the street. Make sure to call first to learn hours of operation.

To hire a real estate team or a solo agent? To join a real estate team or work independently?

Though I don't recommend this practice, I acknowledge that many choose it for variety of reasons After having represented buyers in the past who undertook this process, I knew how to navigate that road. Last year I bought my having never walked through the front door until almost 2 months after it recorded.

Today I upgraded to a lightweight, sturdy and functional tripod because I managed to destroy my $10 garbage tripod. Beford Camera and Video is family owned and has locations in Arkansas, Oklahoma, and Missouri.Today Steve, the store manager in Fayettville, Arkansas shined with superb customer service and expertise.

Established in 1827, Canehill was the first permanent settlement in Washington County, Arkansas. Did you know there are 18 properties listed on the National Register of Historic Places? We'll see one of the state's first colleges (and first co-ed college) and more. Join me as we explore Canehill College, Canehill Presbyterian Church (established in 1891) as well as the museum. A Civil War battle was also fought right here in Canehill, Arkansas.

historiccanehillar.org

Questions? Call the Historic Canehill Office: 479-824-4455

info@historiccanehillar.org

Bella Vista means beautiful view and indeed it is! But did you know that Bella Vista Arkansas slightly differs from other cities in Northwest Arkansas? This is because Bella Vista is a POA or "Property Owners Association." Depending on what you, as a potential buyer here in the Natural State are seeking, this can be a perfect fit or a pass. To most homebuyers, it's very appealing as the monthly assessments entail the beautiful view Bella Vista is so aptly named for is preserved. Check out this very brief glimpse into this pretty town bordering Missouri.

Bella Vista means beautiful view and indeed it is! But did you know that Bella Vista Arkansas slightly differs from other cities in Northwest Arkansas? This is because Bella Vista is a POA or "Property Owners Association." Depending on what you, as a potential buyer here in the Natural State are seeking, this can be a perfect fit or a pass. To most homebuyers, it's very appealing as the monthly assessments entail the beautiful view Bella Vista is so aptly named for is preserved. Check out this very brief glimpse into this pretty town bordering Missouri.

Lake Wedington is a 102-acre lake located just 13 miles west of Fayetteville, AR on State Hwy 16, 15 miles to Siloam Springs and 20 miles to Springdale. If you're looking for a quiet less crowded state park where you can kayak, picnic, hike and fish you're in for a treat. And if you visit between Nov 1 and Thanksgiving you're sure to see some beautiful Fall colors. The Recreation area is temporarily closed but you can still appreciate the trails and lake.

https://www.fs.usda.gov/recarea/osfnf/recarea/?recid=43455

https://www.arkansas.com/fayetteville/outdoors-nature/lake-wedington-recreation-area-campground

Iams Dog Park in Fayetteville, AR offers a little something for the whole family. A playground, basketball, picnic tables, a playround and even a pond gives everyone an opportunity to enjoy themselves here in Northwest Arkansas.

The War Eagle Craft Fair takes place over 4 days beginning on a Thursday in October at the most Norman Rockwell looking venues in Northwest Arkansas. Between 150 and 200,000 people come through this fair from all over the United States. The vendors are some of the most talented I've seen.

The Homegrown Festival showcases locally handmade goods, curated vintage, food trucks, and live music. Vendors offer an array of original, one-of-a-kind, and limited-run items including illustration, printmaking, music, jewelry and accessories, handmade goods, salvaged and repurposed goods, and hand-picked vintage. Thank you to Rustic Raven and Mandy O'Dell for the interviews.

This episode is almost entirely conducted by my friend Doris who has been a docent at the Arkansas Country Museum for many years. When I told her I was planning to attend the Arkansas Apple Festival the first weekend in October, she said to be sure to visit the museum she volunteers at and she'd give me a tour. I didni't know what kind of museum it was until I spotted it right across the street from the Downtown square where the festival takes place. As I followed along and listened to her talk, I was overtaken by a sense of nostalgia that I've read about in books and have seen played out in older movies. This intelligent and extremely sharp woman took me through a full hour of Yesteryear, citing specifics that can only come from one whose lived there her whole life. Her sweet voice, recall, and attention to detail is so impressive. This tour was at least an hour long and she didn't reference a single note! This video-tour is almost as satisfying as a physical tour. I recommend a visit to the Arkansas Country Doctor's Museum and if you can, ask for Doris. You won't be sorry!

Hours: Wednesday through Saturday from 1-4.

drmuseum.net

What do you get when you combine local area vendors selling old/vintage/antique items coupled with food trucks and live music; all within a picturesque 35 acre farm in small town Arkansas? You have Junk Ranch, a pretty famous smalltown and local annual event! Junk Ranch occurs twice a year, in the Spring and the Fall in Prairie Grove, Arkansas. Bring a wagon and start your junkin! Even if (like me,) you're wouldn't know the first thing about what to buy, how to refurbish or improve because, well you like new stuff-I promise you'll appreciate Junk Ranch! This is small town America at its finest and even if you don't buy anything at all, you'll be glad you went.

thejunkranch.net

he Arkansas Apple Festival opens the first Friday in October at 8:00 a.m. and continues throughout the weekend. It includes a parade on Saturday morning, a pageant, events like an apple core throwing contest, music and at least 80 vendors.

It’s estimated that about 100 bushels of apple slices are given away during the three days. Apple Fest is a fun fall festival that young and old are sure to enjoy and there is no admission to enter.

Join my dog Rufus and me as we experience the tall trees and impressive art inside the grounds of Crystal Bridges in Northwest Arkansas. There are seven trails that swirl around Crystal Bridges Museum, where the outdoor art is every bit as awe-inspiring as the indoor art. Today we walked on two trails: The Tulip Tree Trail and the North Forest Trail.

Download a map: https://crystal-bridges-assets.s3.amazonaws.com/uploads/2021/12/110121_Outside_WEB.pdf

crystalbridges.org/nature-trails/

As a realtor, I love Zestimates. Why? Because they force meaningful conversations between consumers and their realtors. I will never forget what a young entrepreneur told a group of real estate professionals that I was in attendance at about 10 years ago.

Tucked away in Downtown Fayetteville Arkansas is the Savoy Tea Company, a unique tea store featuring a wide array of teas. Savoy Tea carries amazing rare teas of the world and flavored teas including black teas, green teas, herbal teas and even baked goods. With a growing preponderence of coffee shops and roasting companies that have popped up in the last 20 years, there's something special about a dedicated tea company. I'd heard so much about Savoy Tea that I had to pay a visit. I was pleasantly surprised to learn this is one of four Savoy Tea Companys in the region. This is the perfect place to make a memory (how many tea companies do you see?), shop for a local and special gift, or simply peruse. My favorite part is the cannisters themselves-the artwork is local and the names of the teas are so clever! Special thanks to Helen, who despite my arriving unannounced, gracefully shared the Savoy story with poise and hospitality.

Do you love small towns, antique stores, and Civil War history? Then Prairie Grove is calling your name. Join me for a lovely drive around Prairie Grove as I visit the historic Downtown, Magnolia Coffee and Battlefield Park. If you're anywhere near Northwest Arkansas and are looking to spend the day within a contained vicinity exploring unique shopping coupled with rich American history, then Prairie Grove should be on your bucket list. In fact, Labor Day weekend features the famous Close-line Fair at Battlefield Park where you can shop more than 150 vendors selling home made crafts, hear Gospel music and watch square dancing.

I've "bean" encouraged by two unrelated though impactful businesses in two adjacent small towns in Northwest Arkansas who are giving back in a meaningful way. KYYA Chocolate in Springdale, Arkansas and JoyHouse Coffee in Cave Springs, Arkansas are two businesses that deserve a taste. Conveniently located along Hwy 112 between Tontitown, AR and Bentonville, AR you will be both satisfied and delighted by the selection and ambiance, and because of my recent interviews, possibly a little inspired! Imagine a chocolate shop (KYYA) just off the main highway with homemade chocolates, chocolate syrups, fresh milkshakes and candy bars. Additionally, JoyHouse Coffee sells freshly roasted coffee and baked goods with a positive ambiance perfect for meeting up with friends. This video features both the landscape between both towns as well as an impromptu interview by two very charitable and kind employees who agreed to let me interview them. I recommend a visit, especially if you're just passing through town. Pick up a little something sweet for yourself or for a special someone!

KYYA Chocolate: https://www.kyyachocolate.com/

Joyhouse Coffee: https://www.joyhousecoffeeco.com/

An interview with a Northwest Arkansas Home Inspector, Nic Cartee from Watchmen Home Inspections by Arkansas Realtor, Jill Varvell with Fathom Realty. Learn about how Nic and his team conduct a home inspection and what to expect from a home inspection when buying a home and practical tips for sellers when selling a home. This extended interview contains how Nic and his family came to choose Northwest Arkansas for his family.

Farmers Markets are one of the best things about a community. Northwest Arkansas is blessed to have an abundance of them. Learn what makes the Siloam Springs...

A weekly podcast covering the people, places, and popular culture of the American South.

Is it Eureka Springs, AR or Little Switzerland? Drive through this idyllic and charming town "that water built" which happens to be one of 12 Historic Towns in the United States. Make a reservation at one of many hotels, bring your bike, and see this quaint Victorian town with no traffic lights and over 60 natural springs. Or just spend the day but plan to come back! It's like most theme parks, you'll never see it all in one day.

Take a brief tour with me of Ranallis farm-store in Tontitown, Arkansas where you can purchase home-baked treats, homemade pasta noodles, preserves, jams, je...